Sacred Heart School

At a Glance

Sacred Heart School is a Catholic parochial elementary school located in Ward 1, serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade. As a faith-based institution, the school integrates Catholic teachings and values throughout its academic program, providing families seeking a religious education with a community-centered environment in Northwest DC.

The school's grade configuration spans the full elementary and middle school years, allowing children to remain in one school community from their earliest educational experiences through eighth grade. This PK-8 structure means families can establish long-term relationships with the school community without navigating elementary-to-middle school transitions that occur in many other educational settings.

What Parents Should Know

As a parochial school, Sacred Heart operates independently from DC Public Schools and is not part of the My School DC lottery system. Families interested in enrollment will need to contact the school directly to learn about their application process, timeline, and availability in specific grade levels. Catholic schools typically have their own admission procedures and deadlines that may differ significantly from public school enrollment cycles.

The PK-8 grade span offers both advantages and considerations for families. Students benefit from continuity and stability, remaining in the same school community for up to nine years. However, all students will transition to a new high school environment after 8th grade, so families should plan ahead for the high school application process, whether considering Catholic high schools, DC public schools, or independent schools. Understanding that timeline early helps ensure a smooth transition when the time comes.

Location in Ward 1 places Sacred Heart in Northwest DC, and families should consider their transportation options when evaluating the school. Unlike DCPS schools with guaranteed boundaries or charter schools with transportation requirements, parochial schools draw students from across the city and surrounding areas. Families are typically responsible for their own transportation arrangements, whether that means driving, using public transit, or coordinating carpools with other school families.

Tuition is a significant consideration when evaluating any private or parochial school. Catholic schools often offer tuition assistance programs for families who qualify, and many prioritize making education accessible to parishioners and the broader Catholic community. Prospective families should inquire directly about current tuition rates, payment plans, and available financial aid when beginning the application process.

Programs and Approach

Catholic parochial schools like Sacred Heart center their educational philosophy on faith formation alongside academic development. Students typically participate in regular religious instruction, attend Mass, prepare for sacraments, and engage in service learning as part of the school culture. The integration of Catholic values into daily school life distinguishes parochial education from secular alternatives.

The elementary and middle school years at a PK-8 school allow for age-appropriate progression in both academics and spiritual development. Younger students build foundational skills while older middle school students take on increasing academic challenges and leadership responsibilities within the school community. This multi-age environment can foster mentorship opportunities and a strong sense of community across grade levels.

Faith-based schools generally expect family participation and alignment with the school's religious mission, even when enrolling non-Catholic students. Families considering Sacred Heart should be comfortable with their children receiving Catholic religious education and participating in faith-based activities as part of the school day.

Visiting and Contact

Sacred Heart School is located at 1625 Park Road NW in Washington, DC. Families interested in learning more about the school, scheduling a tour, or beginning the application process should visit the school's website at https://sacredheartschooldc.com or call (202) 265-4828 for current information about enrollment and visiting opportunities.